MakerSpace 3D printing lab opens at IU Southeast

30th October 2014

NEW ALBANY, Ind. (Oct. 30, 2014) –The IU Southeast informatics and computer science programs in The School of Natural Sciences will host the grand opening of a 3D printing lab Thursday, Nov. 13 from 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. in the IU Southeast Library.

The grand opening event will include examples of what is possible with 3D printing, 3D scanning, a look at the facility, and free refreshments. This lab is made possible by funding from the Horseshoe Foundation, the Indiana University Southeast Office of Academic Affairs, and The School of Natural Sciences.

The informatics and computer science departments have been considering a 3D printing lab for some time, and brought in Dale Dougherty, founder of Make Magazine, in March 2013 to speak about “The Magic of Making: Engaging Students As Makers.” His ideas and enthusiasm were catalysts for creation of the space.

Dr. Chris Kimmer (informatics) and Dr. John Doyle (computer science) were co-principal investigators who requested funding for supplies for a MakerSpace from the Horseshoe Foundation early in 2014 with the proposal, “Make.edu: Establishing a MakerSpace in the IU Southeast Library.”

As described in the proposal abstract, the MakerSpace “will be used by university students inside and outside of classes and by faculty holding workshops for prospective students and other community organizations.” The Horseshoe Foundation granted the award in the summer of 2014, allowing the purchase of two MakerBot Replicator (Fifth Generation) 3D printers. The IU Southeast computer science department, IU Southeast Academic Affairs and the IU Southeast School of Natural Sciences, provided additional funding.

The space is freely available for university students, faculty and staff to use, and is currently staffed 14 hours per week. Students, faculty and staff may be trained to use the printers anytime the library is open.

Future plans for the space by Dr. Kimmer include 3D printing outreach to local schools, workshops for the community, and use in IU Southeast classes.

For more information contact Dr. Chris Kimmer at cjkimmer@ius.edu or by phone at (812) 941-2009.

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